By Hussaini Ibrahim
The Dispute Resolution and Development Initiative (DRDI) has called for increased citizen involvement in local government budgeting across Kano State, saying it is key to improving service delivery and fostering transparency.
In a statement issued to newsmen on Friday, the Executive Director of DRDI, Dr. Muhammad Mustapha Yahaya, emphasized that active participation ensures that government projects align with real community needs.
Dr. Yahaya said the call followed a research report assessing citizen engagement in Tudun Wada, Karaye, Kano Municipal, Fagge, Bichi, and Dambatta Local Government Areas.
The study found that awareness of budget processes remains low, with many residents unfamiliar with governance structures and timelines for budget preparation.
“These gaps hinder meaningful participation, weaken accountability, and reduce trust between citizens and local authorities. Inclusive engagement is critical to reducing corruption, promoting efficiency, and ensuring equitable allocation of resources,” he said.
To address the challenges, Dr. Yahaya recommended awareness campaigns, capacity-building workshops on budget literacy, and simplified budget documents in local languages.
He also proposed town hall meetings, local media, and social platforms to provide real-time feedback.
He urged local governments to institutionalize transparency by making budget reports publicly accessible and including women, youth, and persons with disabilities in discussions.
Co-creation initiatives and feedback systems, he said, would strengthen accountability and improve service delivery outcomes.
Dr. Yahaya reaffirmed DRDI’s commitment to advancing citizen participation and called on policymakers, civil society organizations, and development partners to support community empowerment for a more transparent and responsive local government system.
